Ep 3. Feelings

In season 1 episode 3 of Very British Problems, titled "Feelings," the focus is on the British relationship with emotions. The episode begins with comedian Jack Dee discussing his own trouble with expressing emotions and his reliance on sarcasm as a coping mechanism.

The episode then moves on to explore various different scenarios where Britons might struggle to express their feelings. First up is the British workplace, where the traditional stiff upper lip mentality can make it difficult to navigate office politics. The show interviews several British workers who discuss their experiences with trying to deal with difficult co-workers or asking for a raise. The general consensus seems to be that British people would rather silently suffer than speak up and risk causing a scene.

Next, the show moves on to British family dynamics, which can be just as fraught with tension. We see plenty of footage of awkward family gatherings and uncomfortable conversations. One particularly interesting segment focuses on the British attitude towards sex education. Several interviewees express their discomfort about having "the talk" with their kids, and we see one father awkwardly trying to explain the birds and the bees to his son. It's clear that British people are often made uncomfortable by open discussions of sexuality.

Later in the episode, the focus shifts to British relationships and dating. We see several different couples discussing the trials and tribulations of trying to find love in the UK. One woman talks about the difficulties of "playing it cool" and not coming across as too eager or desperate. Another man discusses his reluctance to discuss his feelings with his partner, even though he knows it's important for the health of their relationship. It's clear that for many Brits, the fear of vulnerability is a major obstacle when it comes to matters of the heart.

Finally, the episode wraps up with a discussion of British manners and etiquette. We see a group of British men discussing the difficulties of knowing when to hug and when to shake hands, and several people express frustration with the etiquette surrounding "small talk." The show also touches on the British tendency to apologize excessively, even when they aren't really at fault.

Overall, season 1 episode 3 of Very British Problems is an amusing and insightful exploration of the British relationship with emotions. Through interviews and comedic sketches, the show highlights the ways in which British people can be both reserved and intensely emotional at the same time. Whether you're British or simply curious about British culture, this episode is sure to entertain and inform.